The story of my life has never been told before, in all its wild and wonderful excess. I'm Elton John, the Rocket Man, and this is my memoir. It's a tale of love, loss, and learning to fly high.
As a young boy growing up in Pinner, Middlesex, I was always drawn to music, not just any music but rock 'n' roll and opera. My parents, Stanley and Sheila John, encouraged my passion, and my earliest memories are of playing piano in our tiny living room.
I began performing professionally at 15, singing with a group called The Blues Men. We played local pubs and clubs, honing my skills and developing my unique style. In 1964 I changed my name to Elton John, a nod to the British folk singer Bert Lloyd. My big break came in 1967 when I formed Rocket's Red Glare.
This book is more than just a record of my life - it's a reflection on the highs and lows, the triumphs and tragedies that have shaped me into the man I am today.
